Hotels in the Texas: The Cell Block Hotel in Clifton

History of the Hotel

The Cell Block Hotel was once a real jailhouse from the 30s. It housed drunks and scoundrels overnight for minor misdemeanors. Now restored, the Cell Block Hotel pays homage to this once run-down, small jailhouse by opening its cells to people running away from the world and looking to have a good time. With details like original jail cell doors, restored for functionality; they are just one part of what makes the Cell Block Hotel one of the most unique hotels in the Texas Hill Country.

Inside the Hotel

True to its theme, the Cell Block Hotel provides a voluntary confinement experience with sprinkles of glam and comfort.

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The jailer’s former office has been converted into a minimalistic living room for two people at the Cell Block Hotel. It also features one bedroom with a queen-size memory foam bed and one bathroom with an overhead, pull chain shower.

Of course, you also have a prison yard and a rooftop deck with a view of Main Street. 

What helps tie the whole concept together are the small details, like a vintage phonograph for playing records about prison, so Johnny Cash and Elvis are your trusty companions; a touch of humor on the soap bar branded “Don’t Drop,” original handcuffs with a key (do what you want with that information), and a dominoes set (because that used to be the jailers’ favorite game). Lastly, take a mugshot with their polaroid camera and leave it on the corkboard!

At night, go to the rooftop and enjoy the natural gas fire pit under the string lights and the stars. Make the old scoundrels proud and grab a glass of the Cell Block’s complimentary, local Tempranillo wine by Red Caboose Winery or the whiskey by Balcones Distilling of Waco.

Things to Do Near the Cell Block Hotel

The Cell Block Hotel is located along Clifton’s Main Street, with easy access to its small-town shops, restaurants, cafes, and more. Enjoy a wine tasting at the Red Caboose Winery, a romantic dinner at Olaf’s Restaurant, coffee at the Corner Drug Cafe, antiquing at the Clifton Antique Mall, and so much more. Be sure to check out our full list of things to in Clifton, Texas!

Final Thoughts

The next time you’re looking for hotels in the Texas Hill Country, book a night in jail at Clifton’s Cell Block Hotel. Orange has never looked so good and a night in jail has never been more fun or romantic!

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Last Updated 2 years ago ago by Jessica Serna | Published: February 1, 2023